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Publications by Abi Watson
All Issue Areas
Global Order
Humanitarian Action
Migration
M&E
Peace & Security
Rights & Democracy
Data & Tech Politics
Years
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Journal article 12 May 2025
Learning From What Works: Lessons for Responding to Digital Threats to Peacekeeping
By Abi WatsonPeacekeepers frequently deal with digital threats in their fieldwork, ranging from disinformation to cyberattacks. Drawing on extensive work with African civil society, this article distills best practices for responding to such threats.… -
Article 12 May 2025
Stick or Twist: Is Peace Enforcement Part of the UN’s Future?
Amid rapidly declining budgets and dwindling faith in multilateralism, the United Nations has to make some tough decisions about its future peacebuilding. This briefing maps the contours of the debate and offers possible ways forward.… -
Commentary 14 Mar 2025
Europe in the Turtle Trap: Defense Spending Alone Will Not Protect Us
It would be an irresponsible bet to act as if every major future threat will be one against which militaries alone can protect us. For the EU, broadening the debt break to include “external security” alongside defense spending could help ensure these reforms improve Europe’s long-term security.… -
Book chapter 29 Jan 2025
Mitigating the Risks of "Wicked Problems" in Security Sector Reform
By Abi WatsonAbi Watson contributed to an edited volume by the NATO Centre of Excellence for Security Force Assistance, entitled "Enhancing Stabilization and Strategic Partnership in a Post-Conflict Environment: A Comprehensive Approach to Human Security." The book brought together academics, think tanks and former and serving members of the military.… -
Policy brief 30 Sep 2024
A Growing Gap: EU Peace and Security Funding Beyond Ukraine
Much of the EU's spending on peace and security-related programs is too rigid to allow for quick responses to emerging crises. And the flexible funds that do exist are already heavily depleted. As a result, many conflict-affected countries now face a funding deficit – unless the EU changes course.… -
Study 09 Jul 2024
Digital Threats to Elections: Learning From What Has Worked in Africa
To help donors and implementers better mitigate digital threats and safeguard elections, this study relays insights from successful efforts by international, national and local organizations working across the African continent.… -
Commentary 05 Mar 2024
Europe Needs a Nuanced Approach to Disinformation in African Elections
Africa is experiencing significant democratic backsliding in many countries. In their programs to support democratic elections, European funders should try to ensure they don’t play into the hands of authoritarians.… -
Commentary 07 Nov 2023
To Save Elections From Disinformation, Fact-Checking Is Only the First Response
By Abi WatsonThe increasing number of fact-checking initiatives across Africa are crucial for providing credible and accurate information. But they alone cannot address the swelling tide of lies around elections.… -
Study 17 Oct 2023
Close the Gap: How to Leverage Local Analysis for Stabilization and Peacebuilding
Without a granular understanding of the political dynamics at work in places where violence occurs, even the best-intentioned stabilization efforts may go wrong. Local analysis can help, but using it requires sustained investment.… -
Article 11 Sep 2023
The Two Most Dangerous Self-Deceptions in Security Sector Reform
By Abi WatsonIn the 20 years since 9/11, those driving security sector reform efforts in the Middle East, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel have acknowledged the limits of tactical fixes. Yet they have relied on them all the same – with profound implications.… -
Interview 16 May 2023
Shifting the Narrative
By Abi WatsonWhat is it like to work on issues like war and peace, security, governance, and justice – in general and as a woman in particular? A peek behind the curtain with GPPi's Abi Watson.… -
Podcast 16 Jan 2023
Protecting Civilians in Iraq
What can be done to increase the protection of civilian? Using examples from Iraq, this podcast discusses some preventive protection efforts that hinder future harms rather than mitigating the effects of past violations.… -
Commentary 26 Aug 2022
Don’t Stumble at the Start Line: Lessons from the UK’s Integrated Review
By Abi Watson